In the late 19th century, feminist ideas changed women’s fashion, both outerwear and underwear. Rigid bodices and full skirts were abandoned in favour of shorter, narrower dresses. Underwear evolved, too, from loose chemises and pantaloons to “combination” undergarments that reduced bulkiness and better suited the streamlined women’s fashion of the 20th century.

Why do you think underwear is often white?

Responses

Posted by Ives

I believe underwear is often made in white because it is worn to keep garments on the out layer clean from the body. With the fabrics being white, cleaning is made easy during washing with bleach. Spotting stains on underwear is also much easier with white fabrics, allowing for cleaning of specific areas. It also costs much less than those that are dyed as colored textiles were expensive. Being a neutral tone, white underwear remains hidden and is less visible than coloured ones under other garments.